Taking the plunge for Special Olympics
Law-enforcement members, Special Olympics B.C. athletes and anyone else who’s up for it will take an icy dip Sunday at Cadboro-Gyro Park to raise awareness and funds to support Special Olympics B.C.
The Vancouver Island Polar Plunge is staged in partnership with the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics B.C.,which showcases athletes with intellectual disabilities.
Among the athletes participating this year will be Victoria’s Sheenagh Morrison, who has jumped into the frigid local waters for as long as the event has been staged, and says it has changed her life.
“I’ve made so many friends and I have more confidence and believe in myself more,” said Morrison, who was the top athlete fundraiser in B.C. in 2022, raising just over $2,600.
This year, her goal is to raise $3,000.
Among the friends she has made is Const. Lisa Bruschetta of the Saanich Police Department, who helps organize not only the Polar Plunge but the Torch Run and Free the Fuzz for the Special Olympics.
“The event just fills my bucket,” said Bruschetta, who won the inaugural B.C. Law Enforcement Torch Run Award last year.
“It warms my heart to watch them succeed and build confidence. The event helps define their abilities, not disabilities.”
She said the Law Enforcement Torch Run, which takes place in 45 countries, has raised close to $1 billion worldwide since 1981.
The funds raised in local events stay local, going toward programs and services throughout B.C.
Registration opens at
9:30 a.m., with opening ceremonies at 10:30 and the plunge taking place at 11 on Sunday at Cadboro-Gyro Park on Sinclair Road.
Spread the word at #Plunge4SOBC. For more information or to register, go to plunge4specialolympics.com. To donate, go to plunge4special olympics.crowdchange.ca/27602.